Northcentral University Degree Program(s) Available
The Master of Science in Child and Adolescent Psychology at Northcentral University is offered completely online. The program provides students with an understanding of the diverse world of child and adolescent psychology. They are provided an in-depth look at developmental stages as well as how family, school peers, society and culture impact the development of children. Students are exposed to the physical, cognitive, gender and socioemotional development of children in order to better apply theories and research findings to improve the lives of young people. Students also gain an understanding of ADHD and autism spectrum disorders.
Master of Science in Forensic Psychology
The Master of Science in Forensic Psychology provides students with an understanding of criminal behavior and what motivates it. They are prepared to apply psychological principles in forensic settings in order to work in the criminal justice system, law enforcement, courts, corrections or in victim services organizations. The program is 100 percent online. Students develop critical problem-solving skills as well as creative thinking skills that allow them to use practical applications of forensic psychology while adhering to ethical principles in research and academics.
Master of Science in Health Psychology
The Master of Science in Health Psychology provides students with an understanding of the interaction of biological, psychological and social factors that can impact health. They are prepared for careers in education, health care organizations or other social service locations. Students examine psychological principles that may prevent illness, improve health outcomes and impact healthcare systems. The program is 30 credit hours and focuses on the psychology of health and illness as well as recovery. One course covers stress and coping where students examine sources, manifestations and coping methods for stress. Students also gain an understanding of behavioral nutrition, collaborative care and mental health along with research methods that are critical to health psychology. They also gain an understanding of addiction, substance abuse, psychopathology, trauma, and wellness. There is an optional internship available that allows students to apply classroom learning to real-world settings.
Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology
The Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology program at Northcentral University allows students to advance their critical thinking skills while expanding their knowledge of psychology. This allows them to evaluate individual, social, organizational and global problems in an effort to resolve them. There is an emphasis on applied experiential learning using case studies, scenarios, vignettes, and real-life situations. Students may concentrate their studies in:
- Addictions
- Gender Diversity Studies
- General Psychology
- Gerontology
- Health Psychology
- Industrial-Organizational Psychology
- Mental Health Policy and Practice
- Trauma and Disaster Relief
About North Central University
President James A. Garfield once described the perfect institute of higher learning as a “student on one end of a log and the teacher on the other,” indicating that successful learning required a teacher and a student to work together for success. In 1996, Northcentral University was founded in 1996 using this philosophy, connecting faculty and students through online methods that allow more flexibility for non-traditional learners.
Students are partnered with one faculty member in each course, a teaching model used by the Oxford Learning Model. This creates a more personal learning experience, giving students the opportunity to learn from a valued mentor. The focus of Northcentral University is innovation, diversity, excellence, and accountability.
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All faculty at the University are doctoral and there are no physical residency requirements like are required at other online schools.
Northcentral University Accreditation Details
Northcentral University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools and has been since 2003. This indicates that the school meets or exceeds criteria created by the accrediting agency that indicates students are receiving the highest quality education. The school also agrees to periodic review to confirm they continue to meet their goals and objectives. The Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs accredits all business programs at the school and Northcentral was one of the first online universities to receive ACBSP accreditation.
Northcentral University Application Requirements
Students are admitted to Northcentral University if they have a high school diploma and have earned at least 60 semester credits from an accredited college or university. Official transcripts must be provided from all colleges and universities attended. Military transcripts are also accepted. An online application must also be completed.
Students who have previously earned a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or institution may apply using the Direct Entry Option. Those who have not completed their bachelor’s degree but have earned 60 or more semester credits may apply using the Evaluation Track. All students who wish to attend graduate school at Northcentral University must speak to an admissions counselor before applying.
Northcentral University Tuition and Financial Aid
Tuition varies depending on the program the student plans to enter. Tuition for the Bachelor of Arts in Psychology is $1,383 per three-credit course. Tuition for the Master of Arts in Psychology is $2,454 per course. Tuition for the Master of Arts in Child & Adolescent Psychology, Educational Psychology, Forensic Psychology, Health Psychology or Industrial & Organizational Psychology is $2,502 per course. The tuition for the Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology is $3,360 per course.
Financial aid is available. Students must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) in order to qualify. Grants and scholarships are also available. In addition, Northcentral University accepts VA benefits and also provides a fee structure that extends to active duty, National Guard and Reserve members along with their spouses. Northcentral University also accepts tuition reimbursement from employers and can assist students with applying for private education loans.
Northcentral University is unique in that students are taught in a one-on-one format that allows them to develop a closer relationship with their instructors. All programs are offered online and there is no residency requirement. Optional internships may be arranged in the student’s local area. Northcentral University offers non-traditional students the opportunity to achieve their higher education goals by providing flexible schedules that allow them to continue meeting other obligations that may prevent them from attending traditional classes.